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I went to college out of state and haven't been able to find a job or draw the attention of companies back at home because of it. How do I get companies to pay attention to me when I don't currently live in that state?

This is an interesting dilemma and I would suggest talking with your career services office since you have access to the services while in college and well beyond graduation for some free coaching and networking. Know the many companies like to hire talent from the area and will look at students that have roots in the area. So make sure you're resume indicates your temporary and permanent addresses if that applies since it helps recruiters and hiring managers figure out if your familiar with the territory. The situation is frustrating but be encouraged, stay enthusiastic and best of luck getting a job in your home state.

Definitely note both addresses on your resume as stated in the previous answer. If that is the case, and you have a permanent address in our home state, I would use that address when you apply for positions instead of the out-of-state school address. Also, use your home address on your cover letter is you create one.

Applying for jobs out of state is sometimes a difficult task to take on. There are a couple of things to consider when trying to land a position somewhere that you don’t currently reside. As Verizon and HP have mentioned, be sure to include both your temporary and permanent address on your resume. You may also want to consider first applying for an internship; some companies find it easier to hire an out-of-state intern rather that a full-time employee. You can also mention your desire to find employment in a particular location within the objective portion of your resume (i.e. “Seeking to find an Accounting role in New York, NY upon graduation.”) If you submit a cover letter, make it known that you’re planning to move back to said location and provide an estimated time frame if possible, this will let employers know that you don’t expect them to pay relocation assistance. Always remember the importance of networking when it comes to finding a position, link to employees where you’re hoping to be. Good luck!

To echo everyone else’s feedback, be sure to include your permanent address on your resume. If you no longer have a permanent address in your home state that you can use, I would suggest including an explanation in your cover letter that you attended school out of state but are looking to relocate back home. You should provide an estimated timeframe of when you plan to move back so recruiters know you have a definite timeline in place and a place to live so your hiring process wouldn’t have to be delayed to relocate and find housing if you accept a position. If you have any previous work experience in your home state that makes sense to include on your resume, add this as well.

In addition to listing your address in that state, you should clearly state your intentions in the first section of your resume. This is usually an summary of you or an objective. In this section, state something to the effect of 'recent college graduate seeking opportunities in XX location'. This section of the resume is critical for many reasons as your want to grab the interest of the reader here and make them want to continue reading. Another option may be not to list any mailing address at all. Provide your phone and e-mail address only and as stated above, list your geographic areas of interest in the summary section.